A statement from Mrs Watson’s lawyers said she had been paid in “error” for “a period while she was a trustee”.

It added: “Wendy Watson has worked full-time for the charity from August 2012 until now.

“She was paid for her work for one year (September 2014-5) [and] during that period, she was also a trustee.

“Neither Ms Watson nor the charity were aware that this was inappropriate until they were informed by the Charity Commission, at which point Ms Watson immediately resigned as a trustee and continued to work without payment.

“Ms Watson was also paid for three months’ work at the end of 2016.

“Other than these periods, she has worked full time on a voluntary basis.”